Paris – 20.06.2026: The Hospices Civils de Lyon (HCL) have obtained regulatory approval to produce therapeutic phages. These bacteriophages are viruses that specifically infect and destroy bacteria without harming human cells. They offer a promising alternative for combating infections resistant to conventional antibiotics.
The development of phage therapy at HCL began in 2017 with the PHAGEinLYON program. The goal was to improve access to phage therapy in France by providing pharmaceutical-grade phages. In 2021, the PHAG-ONE project received funding of 2.85 million euros from the French research agency ANR. This project focused on producing phages against bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, and Escherichia coli.
The approval to produce therapeutic phages marks a significant advance in the fight against antibiotic resistance. This development allows HCL to manufacture and apply phages directly, expanding treatment options for patients with multi-resistant infections. Furthermore, it strengthens the independence of the French healthcare system in producing innovative therapies.
HCL has already gained experience in applying phage therapy. As part of the PHAGEinLYON program, 26 patients were treated with this method in 2022. These clinical experiences have contributed to the further development and validation of phage therapy.
The production of therapeutic phages at HCL is conducted under strict quality standards. The FRIPHARM® platform is responsible for the manufacturing and quality control of the phages. It ensures that the phages meet the required pharmaceutical standards and are safe for clinical use.
The approval to produce therapeutic phages is an important milestone in combating antibiotic resistance. It opens new prospects for treating infections that can no longer be controlled with conventional antibiotics. By doing so, HCL provides a substantial impetus for the development of innovative therapies in the field of infectious diseases.
The application of phage therapy could be particularly significant for patients suffering from chronic or difficult-to-treat infections. Due to the specific action of phages on bacteria, side effects could be reduced and treatment outcomes improved. Additionally, the availability of locally produced phages may enhance supply security and reduce dependence on international supply chains.
Overall, the approval to produce therapeutic phages at the Hospices Civils de Lyon represents a significant advancement in medical research and therapy. It demonstrates France’s commitment to innovative medicine and underscores the importance of research institutions in Lyon for developing new treatment methods.